Thanks to all your questions on Annie Sloan’s Chalk Paint, we’re going to have a mighty big q and a today!
We’ll cover quite a bit of topics, so try to stay with me, okay? :-)
First, let’s talk about the product. Annie Sloan created chalk paint to meet the need of finding a paint made specifically for furniture painting, one that could be treated as a wash, and one that could be manipulated by the artist using it. It was designed to create time-worn finishes.
Which, by the way, is why I love it. Some things to know:
-Chalk paint has quite a matte (chalky) finish, but you receive luster by buffing. Still, the sheen would equate to a satin finish…or maybe even somewhere in between satin and semi-gloss.
-It is best sealed with furniture wax, although you can seal it with other protectants.
-brush strokes will appear in the first coat, and as it dries, but it will dry to a smooth finish. every now and then, I’ll have some dry with faint strokes in it, but nothing that doesn’t look natural and again, time-worn.
I created 2 video tutorials for you….one on general information and distressing and one on waxing. The videos are quite detailed, as I’m random and I’ll throw in extra information all throughout.
Let me also start by saying that I’m no official chalk paint spokesperson…I would love to have my good friend, Patty, over here sometime so we could get her opinions and expertise!
aubusson blue chalk paint
Where do you buy it?
–I buy all of my chalk paint from Classic Wall Finishes from a wonderful stockist named Patty. She and her sister are committed to excellent customer service…she is just wonderful and I know you’ll love working with her!
How much can one can cover…is it worth the expense?
–The quart size cans cover around 140 square feet….and let me tell you, it lasts. And lasts. For instance, with my one can of Old White, I’ve painted: two large signs, trim on the french dresser, a farmhouse dining table-2 coats, a large waterfall buffet-2 coats, a mirror, some small frames…and I can’t even remember what else. I’ve just now gotten to under half a can. And with saving the cost of primer, lots of sanding supplies, and using less sanding blocks to distress, the cost is completely worth it for me. It will be different for everyone, but the quality is incredible, the look is so beautiful, and it does go such a long way.
Can you use it in a sprayer??
–I honestly don’t know. I haven’t tried, but I’m imagining you can. Again, the beauty of the paint to me is the hand-applied finish…but I’ll give it a whirl sometime to see how it goes.
Can you use it on kitchen cabinets and dining tables? How durable is it?
–You can use chalk paint on any surface. It adheres to almost anything, and I’ve painted laminate, particle board, solid wood, leather, old and new furniture alike. It’s held up beautifully. I will tell you this…and please see the waxing video at the end…if you wax improperly, that’s where you’ll have more trouble. This is covered in the video, but wait until your wax is no longer tacky before you buff it. This will stop any paint “rolling” off. So, yes, as long as it’s sealed it’s very durable. And go for the cabinets! Here’s some tips from Annie Sloan herself….find her tips here.
For high traffic tabletops, I would paint 2 coats and do at least 2 coats of wax…maybe 3. If you use a Poly, go with 4 coats.
painting Old White onto a varnished table
Can you seal it with anything other than wax?
–Sure you can. However, Annie Sloan recommends using the Hannant’s Wax (or a comparable soft wax), so that’s what I’ve done. Again, see the video at the bottom for a tutorial and some tips.
3 parts old white, 1 part aubusson blue/lime washed top/clear wax
Is this paint only for heavily distressed finishes?
–No, absolutely not…here’s an example. I didn’t distress this table at all…and I love how it turned out!
base coat:duck egg blue, top coat: old white/clear wax
Do you have to wax in between layers if you’re using 2 colors?
–You can, but don’t have to. Simply paint your base color, then top, and distress with a fine sanding block or sandpaper. Only rub down to the base color. Or you can use wax….see Annie’s tips here.
2 coats of old white/clear wax
I’ve had some trouble with bleed through? How do you fix this or what approach should I take?
–I address this in the video, but I’ll say briefly…there are just pieces of furniture out there that are stubborn. They have water stains under the original stain…and painting it pulls it out, especially if you paint with a lighter color. I’ve had small bleed through with one piece (and have painted 25 with chalk paint), and it disappeared after the 2nd coat.
I discuss some options for you in the video if this is a problem for you. Just realize that some pieces would do that, even if you used a stain-blocking primer…I’ve had to paint 2 coats of primer before…simply put, some pieces will give you trouble and you’ll have to adjust the plan, no matter which products you’re using.
aubusson blue, clear wax, lightly dark waxed
Overall, I have to say that this product is my new love…I just got in a bunch of new colors and I cannot wait to give them a try! I hope this answered lots of questions, and believe me,
1 coat of duck egg blue on a new, varnished table/ clear wax
2 coats of old ochre/clear and dark wax
there’s a lot more covered in the videos. Like a WHOLE BUNCH.
Excuse the random giggles I get in the first video and the random weird jokes in the second.
I blame it on the permanent lack of sleep in this house.
I highly recommend you purchasing Quick and Easy Paint Transformations by Annie Sloan and watching Miss Mustard Seed’s Waxing Tutorial Video. Don’t forget to visit Patty and tell her I said HI!!
**NOTE: The opinions and techniques used in this tutorial were my own, and what works for me, as I am still learning how to use this great product to its fullest advantages. For more detailed and advanced techniques, be sure to visit chalkpaintnorthamerica.com to learn more about the wonderful Annie Sloan stockist-taught workshops! I hope to attend one one day myself. :-)
I have completed three projects with Annie’s chalk paint have loved the results. I am getting ready to post my second project and would love to refer my readers to your great FAQ post. Thanks for sharing!
Hey Stacy! Sure, go right ahead…I’m honored! Also have been meaning to email you to thank you again for offering to make the curtains for the homes we built…we ran into so many surprises this year preparing to leave that we ran out of time for extra…but we will hopefully get to work with you in the future! It was such a kind and generous offer. One in a million, you are.
shaunna
Thanks for all the answers. This will help a lot in deciding to use chalk paint or not.
Thanks, Jeannine! Hope it helps.
shaunna
I am painting a chair with this paint as we speak. I love it. I have added different colour paint to the clear wax to get different effects on other pieces. I use to use Farrow and Ball paint, but have switched alliance!! Thanks for your videos, very informative.
Oh, good! I haven’t colored my wax yet….do you enjoy it??
shaunna
YAY!! I’ve been totally obsessively checking your blog to see when this was going to be posted- you’re a superstar to have taken the time to do this!! Thank you!
LOVE, love love the way you explained and showed everythingI’ve been wondering about. I also enjoyed the kids- at times, I couldn’t tell if the little voices were my children or yours
Best of luck to you- when we make our seems like FOREVER but it’s really 9 hours trip down to the beach, I plan on stopping in Troy to see your space- can’t wait to see more!
Any suggestions on a piece I’m working on? It’s a french armchair with a cane back- I’ve tried a ton of different chalk paint color combos and waxes (another plus- you can redo without issue!) and currently, it’s a mix of provence and old white for the wood and old white on the cane. I am totally stuck on what type of fabric to use and trim. I had planned on drop cloth (cant sew) or osnaburg but that may not be durable enough- whatcha think?
You’re so very kind, Pia! And yes, the kiddos star in many of videos.
That paint combo sounds beautiful….I say go for the 10 oz dropcloth!! It’ll be very durable and super simple.
shaunna
Thank you so much Shaunna for all the information–very concise and SO informative. Also thanks for addressing the bleed through…I think you hit the nail on the head–I have a piece with a difficult stain covering the wood….With that said I think my trials and tribulations will be worth it–I LOVE the piece–a vintage little drop top desk with 2 curved drawers–PERFECT for my laptop–am working on it with Old White…will send you a picture when finished….Thanks again for the information–and for all you do to keep us rookies motivated!
chris
You’re so welcome! I’m glad you enjoyed it and I hope it’s helpful! And send those pics on!!
shaunna
I’m so glad you did this post. I have been painting furniture for years now and have been wondering about this product!
Thanks for all your effort in answering our questions!
I still wondered about high traffic table tops….would you put poly on top of the wax?
I know that when working with some poly’s the dry time between shouldn’t be too long or you’d have to lightly sand again. So if you only do multiple coats of wax (no poly) how long do you wait in between coats before applying another coat?
And what if in a couple years my table has been abused more than I would like…how do you re-do it? I’m imagining that if ANY piece of furniture is finished with wax trying to remove it before re-finishing is going to be a mess with all kinds of sticky, gummy, nastiness on my sander?
Thanks so much!
Thank you for your help! I have painted one piece now and have learned new things that I will try on my next piece. Can you tell me how you buff after your wax is completely dry? What are your finals steps after the wax has been applied? Thanks again!
Shaunna, thanks so much for the FAQ and videos!
I’ve been wanting to take the plunge and try some chalk paint makeovers, and was concerned about the amount of coverage I’d get per can. Now, I think I’m going to have to try it! And as cheesy as it sounds, my maiden name was Sloane, so it made me excited to see a “famous” Sloan!
Thank You!!
Is that a baby wipe that you use to wipe off the wax too or just a wet cloth? I’m at the waxing point of my first piece so I found your video just at the right time! Thank you!
You’re the coolest!
Thank you, thank you, thank you. What a huge help! So many questions of mine have been answered by watching your videos. Thank you for taking the time to do it.
Shaunna, I love this paint and I used Old White on two chests, the mantel, and our two built ins and still had paint left over. It does go a long way.
I have yet to purchase any Chalk paint but can’t wait to try it. Thank you so much for the tutorials! You’ve helped me to make up my mind and am going to go order some right now. Plus, I just love your accent! I’m from Iowa-no cool accents here. Thanks again!
Holly
Thanks for the video Shaunna! Oh by the way, it is good to know other Mama’s have to work around their kids’ sound effects too. I loved Grayson in this, too cute!!!
Blessings!
Shaunna,
As if you don’t have a million other things to do, you take the time to write a post all about the wonders of Annie Sloan Chalk Paint…thank you so much for giving us all this info. You are so gifted and I’m sure it pleases God quite a bit to see you sharing it with the world! In the picture above of the dresser with the pink tissue paper pom poms on top, is that really just 2 coats of old white/clear wax? It looks pink and if it is, what color combo did you use to come up with it? Again, thanks for sharing!
I love the chalk paint too! Thanks for the q & a’s!
Debbie
Grayson was so cute in the video!
Thanks for the great tutorial!
Thanks so much for the videos! I really enjoyed them! And what a cool cookie you are for just going w/ the flow w/ the phone ringing & kids about! I loved seeing that because sometimes I get too fussy when I’m distracted!
What are your thoughts on just spot priming? I had a table the other week that had a very stubborn stain, but I worked it out when I put the dark wax on. But do you think I could have just “spot primed” the stain area and then just kept on going w/ my chalk paint or would you still see a difference in the primed & non-primed areas?
And some thoughts…if you do leave your paint can open you can always add water to chalk paint to thin it back out. Also, I have used chalk paint in a sprayer. I just added a little water to get to the right velocity for my sprayer. It went on very nicely, but I think I will probably just use it for base coats to cover pieces quickly as I really like the hand-painted look that chalk paint gives!
Thanks again!
Paula
Hi Shaunna,
I have not had a chance to introduce myself before now, but I am the Distributor for Annie Sloan Products and I just wanted to point out a few things that may be helpful to your readers.
1) All of my Stockist host hands-on workshops to teach Annie Sloan Chalk Paint and Wax so I highly recommend them for those interested in learning more. You can find their contact info at http://www.chalkpaintnorthamerica.com/wheretopurchase.html
2) I want to comment on the thickening of the Chalk Paint. Shaunna, you are correct in that the Chalk Paint is designed to thicken when exposed it to the air over a period of time becuase that allows us to create texture, especially when layering colors. If the paint thickens more then you want it to, just add a bit of water and mix it in well. The paint can also be thined all the way down to create a wash for wood or as a top coat.
3) We actually recommend painting, applying clear wax, then sanding. You can absolutely sand before if you chose, but when you sand over freshly waxed paint it peals the paint back and gives a different look…less scratchy of a finish.
4) Finally, it may be more helpful to have a rag dipped in clear wax to wipe the dark wax back to the desired color, instead of using a rag dampened with water. It allows a bit more control.
Just a few more tips…and I hope everyone enjoys Annie Sloan Chalk Paint as we believe it is the BEST paint in the WORLD for furniture!
Best,
Lisa Rickert
Thank you, Lisa!! How helpful to have you leave us some tips! I think I’m with you…BEST paint ever!!
shaunna
I want to say how much I’ve loved this product. It really is so fun and easy! The clear wax has been somewhat troublesome, it isn’t giving me the luster I’m looking for when I buff it. I was hoping to get some tips on buffing…all things buffing.
Also, I’ve seen several readers ask about how far the paint goes. I have done a 6 drawer dresser that is 5 1/2 feet long and about 38-40″ tall with less than 1/3 can of Aubusson using 2 coats. I poured about 4 oz of paint into a dixie cup and mixed with about 2 oz of tap water to thin it slightly, it was very thick when I got it home from Jackson, MS. That cup gave me 2 coats of paint for the dresser, this was not a distressed piece and I was happy with the solid color. (This piece was difficult to wax and buff to a nice finish though.) That was my first piece I painted with AS chalk paint and I’ve diluted the paint for each one since. I have yet to get below half a can of paint after painting 7 pieces using the Aubusson, Paris Grey, and Old White. When you break down the cost per item painted, it is actually a savings.
So, I’ve been mixing the paints happily and loving the colors I’ve created! My favorites are the Paris Grey and Old White together on a wicker chair and side table. I love this paint on wicker!
Thank you Annie! Please come back to our area soon!
I ordered my chalk paint the other day and while I was at it, I ordered a quart of the Faux Effects Dead Flat Varnish. I’m glad I did because after talking to the rep at Southern Institute of Faux Finishing, if you are doing a piece that’s going to receive a lot of traffic; i.e., cups of coffee, kids, etc., this is what you want to use instead of the clear wax. When it dries, it maintains the “chalky” look of the paint without leaving that “glossy” look that varnish does. She said not to use both the wax and the dead flat varnish, but to use the varnish for pieces that are going to get a lot of use like a coffee or end table.
I’m really glad I got that piece of advice since I am turning a set of drawers into a bookcase that will sit at the back of my sofa, and I have 4 kids who were born to leave their water glasses everywhere!
Thank you so much Shaunna for the videos, I love the paint, and I learned a lot from the videos, again thank you
martha
I am so greatful for this! Especially the wax. I am not comfortable with that part yet. I have done a ton in Chalk Paint and am hard pressed to go back. Paris Grey is fabulous! Keep the tips coming.
http://vintagerestyled.blogspot.com
Thanks for the videos, especially on the waxing. This helps so much! I have to share this with everyone.
I, too, love chalk paint and your tutorials are fab! I have to say that the dark wax has been scary for me but I am going to try it again but the way that you described. And baby wipes are on my shopping list! Thanks so much! I do have your ebook and love that, as well. You rock!
my first order is on its way to me right now. my one worry is that i will love it so much that i will never want to paint with any other paint again and i will break the bank paying for it. AND i have about 20 cans and sample sizes of oops paint that i really need to use up.
i do have a question that i’m not sure that you can answer. can you mix latex paint with the chalk paint to get different colors?
thanks for the great info…..
cindy
Shaunna, I adore you! These videos were so helpful! It was like talking to a friend. I just bought a quart of chalk paint following your link to paint my coffee table. You gave me some great info, I can’t wait to try it! I am gonna use minwax paste wax for the finish since I have a can of that. Thanks again seriously, loved how Grayson was in the background so cute!
Thank you so much for this!! I may just have to bite the bullet & order some….. I talked with a stockist today – that’s a start
For some reason, the videos are all green and garbled for me, so I missed out on that fabulousness 
There were some great questions in the comments, maybe you could do a part 2??
Again ~ thanks for sharing what you’ve learned with us!! You’re awesome
Shaunna I would love to watch the videos but when I hit play the pictures go all green and distorted
Not sure if anyone else has had this problem?
xx Karen
You are just so stinkin’ cute!!! Great videos, Shaunna.
I’m with Marian. You are too adorable. I’m gonna talk like you in my video. hehe
Great tutorials, sweetie.
Hi Shauna!
Thanks for the video on waxing. I am used to using the minwax product and had a bit of difficulty with the soft wax. I thought I should buff it and made it look streaked. This really helps! Do you buff your furniture at all?
Also, I had a little trouble with a very long top of a dresser, it had too many paint lines, but the paint had been used a lot and probably was getting thicker.
Thanks bunches!
Theresa
Thank you so much, Shaunna. I ordered some of the chalk paint a while back and I’ve been admiring it but a little leery of doing something wrong, even after reading through the Annie Sloan book. I loved hearing you give advice in person; it’s very reassuring. You’re so unflappable, and I think by the end, I might have been developing a little drawl instead of the Minnesota accent.
Thanks for taking the time to do the tutorials. I have your e-book and love it. Lots of great tips. You have the cutest southern accent!
Would you use it on woodwork? (100 year old oak trim) I’m really curious about it now! I have a couple of pieces I want to paint and I think I’m going to try it!
Ok. I’m going to do it. I AM going to order some of that awesome paint and try it out. I have to! I’ve been hearing so much about it and how easy it is to use and how beautiful it distresses…..
I haven’t had a chance to watch your videos yet, Shaunna, but when I have some quiet time, I’m going to soak them both up! lol! Thank you for taking the time to make them and share them with us. You’re awesome!
Question for ya: Can you mix the chalk paint with regular paint and get the same effect?
xoxo laurie
I LOVE this post! I have received so many emails on this paint, and I am just going to send them all to YOU! Loved the videos, I could just listen to your sweet voice all day! You keep it real darlin, and I love how you’re just straight up in your everyday clothes with your kids running around, so fantastic. I am blessed to have you as my very knowledgeable friend! Sending a little traffic your way tomorrow.
xoxo
Kate
Pingback: Centsational Girl » Blog Archive » BOTB 6.5.11
Hey there, thanks for this great post. I love chalk paint, but haven’t yet tried a project myself. It is on the list though. I’m a new follower. Cheers
I am on my second can of old white chalk paint and I do like it, however I ran into a problem with the second can of paint. I have small bubbles when I paint. They do not dry in bubble but rather they burst and leave a small indentation in the paint. I really do not like the look and I was wondering if there is something I can do or should I contact Patty and see if I can get a replacement. Please let me know if you can.
Shaunna this is just perfect. I have heard so many great things about Anne Sloane paint. The Q & A an tutorials are terrific.
Be sure to enter my awesome $250 Giveaway from Tracy Porter!!
xoxo
Karena
Art by Karena
I loved these videos…:) Thank you so much for taking the time to do it…I loved hearing the kids, TV and telephone in the background…It reminded me when my kids were small…:) Bitter sweet…And I didn’t think the giggling and jokes were a bad thing…It made the videos more enjoyable…Your a doll…
Xo, Meme
Thank you!!!! I so appreciate this post and videos. I have a request, would you cover buffing? That’s been the trouble spot with the Hannant’s/Annie Sloan clear wax for me. Thanks again!
I love your tutorials, they are extremely helpful. I am wanting to paint our old dresser but it has a laminate top, will the chalk paint handle this ok? Is there anything special you would recommend to do to the top. Thanks for your help.
Oh girl! I feel like you could be my sister from another mister. You are such a refreshing change of pace in the blogosphere and at just the right time! I love your professional information and quality video cloaked in a coat of “real life!” You are amazeballs. Chalk paint is the shizz. Keep it coming!
I LOVE. that you called me your “sister from another mister.” Where have you been all my life? LOL
shaunna
Thanks so much for the amazing info and videos! I am praying that I didn’t ruin my pieces! I am having problems with my waxed pieces in that it is easy to scratch through the rustic wax down to the chalk paint….I’m guessing that I used too much wax???? If that is the case, is there any remedy?
Just curious if I’m missing something…..I don’t see the videos:-( I am at work and am wondering if they are blocked…I can see everything except the videos.
I’m really curious about painting leather with chalk paint. What did you paint? Do you think it will crack?please tell more.
You are adorable and I’m glad I found your blog b/c it’s amazing. I am about to buy some chalk paint right now from Patty in NJ. I’m gonna start with Old White first. One question– I have some leftover and “oops” paints (latex) and wondered if I could mix it with chalk paint to add a little color to the Old White. Or should I avoid that completely??
Katie
Hi
I was wondering if chalk paint is the same thing as blackboard paint? Unfortuntately I cannot get chalk paint in NZ but hoping it is the same thing as chalkboard or blackboard paint? Many thanks
PS: awesome website!
Hey Paula, Unfortunately, it’s not the same…I’m sorry! I’ll check with my stockist to be sure there are no more that could get you some. Thanks for the kind comment!
It’s geogorus! I love it! I am so curious as to where you get your blue tinted mason jars, so cute!?
Chalk paint where have you been all my life!!! Shauna, your information is fabulous. Thank you for being a true southern belle,you make us proud. I have been using the chalk paint for about 3 months and I love it. It is so refreshing meeting women who are lifting up and celebrating one another. Keep up the fabulous work.
Hi Shaunna,
Wow I just found your beautiful blog (via Home Stories A 2 Z) and am sooooo glad I did!! Your furniture projects are lovely……..and this post on Chalk Paint FAQ’s is fantastic. I am actually in the process of becoming a Canadian Stockist (retailer) of Annie Sloan’s Chalk Paint and would love to post a link to this post on my blog. I know a lot of people are scared to try new techniques and products but your tutorial really makes it simple and doable.
Off to devour your other posts.
Take Care
Janis
So helpful! And I even found a store here in Houston that is only 10 minutes away so I am going to get my supplies tomorrow. Can you discuss buffing? That wasn’t mentioned in the videos.
Thanks!
Thanks so much for your post. I have recently painted a bed with latex and I am not 100% happy with the results. I am very interested in trying this. I am curious about curing times for the chalk paint. Latex takes so long! Please let me know. After two coats, how soon can you put the wax on? And, is the piece useable right away?
I am in the middle of my first project with the chalk paint. I “stumbled” upon your blog earlier this week, and that’s how I heard about the product in the first place
. I absolutely love your pieces, your writing, and your videos – you are adorable, knowledgeable and real! Thanks so much for sharing all of this, and I’ll let you know how my little accent table turns out.
I am so happy to see your tutorials. I have been finishing “rescued” furniture forever. I learned about chalk paint while visiting Miss Mustard Seed’s blog. Since then I have hemmed, hawed, wished I had a retailer close by (so that I could see the colors closer and not just on the computer screen), hemmed a bit more and bought five or so different colors of the chalk paint, a can of soft wax, and the awesome wax brush. I spent a bit more than I had hoped, but I am still excited to get moving. My problem now, which may not sound like much of a problem is what to paint first!! I have an old hutch that I have been holding on to for years. It was my great grandfathers building in the “North End” of Boston. I stripped it a few months back because it was “clumpy-looking” after so many different coats of paint. I can’t wait to get it ready for paint (I have a few wood holes to fill). I am feeling a bit more confident now that I saw your tutorials. Thank you so much.
Yes you can spray Annie Sloan Chalk paint – works like a charm! http://lindauerdesigns.com/paint-sprayers-annie-sloan-chalk-paint/
I purchased the Annie Sloan waxes. Should I have gotten the others you mentioned instead?
I’m painting my first piece today – a sideboard. I’m using old ocher underneath and a light coat of versailles on top. I’m so excited/nervous!! I only have one of the good wax brushes, so will use it for the clear wax. I have an old small stencil brush that I’m going to use for the dark wax. Is that a good choice? Thanks so very much for your tutorial. I wouldn’t even have tried this project without it!
Barb
Your website has helped me tremendously. Thank you for your expanation and tips. I’m getting ready to buy my first can of chalk apint (Annie Sloan). Can’t wait to try it.
barb
I’m IN LOVE with this paint! I used only one coat of my olive chalk paint on an antique desk of my grandparents and it looks beautiful! {I think they would be thrilled to see me give it new life after all these years.} I haven’t even waxed it yet, which is why I watched your videos. Can’t wait to see how it looks after I wax it! I won’t ever use another kind of paint to paint furniture. Thank you so much for the wonderful tips, information and video! It was fun to hear your southern accent and see how you dealt with your cute boy during the shooting of the video. I’m a follower now for sure of your blog.
Have a super day!
Hi Shaunna! I’m finishing some pieces that I painted with the chalk paint and your FAQs were SOOO helpful! Thank you!
Last night, my husband and I were talking about painting, and out of the blue, I thought of reading about chalk paint…and then I thought, What the heck is chalk paint, anyway?
Thanks for all the information! We’ll be using it shortly.
I just bought the cutest bedside tables-exactly like your little blue one. Unfortunately is has old paint that is glossy and hard (might be lead). They are also chipped. Do I have to strip them? I am good with a sander can I get away with sanding the heck out of them then applying milk paint? thanks
Hi Shaunna,
I loved watching your videos. You really explain everything so well. I just went to the site you recommended and ordered my supplies…even bought 2 of those wax brushes…ouch! $35 a piece. But i know it is important to use good tools.
Thanks for your advice!
♥charlotte
I’ve been stalking all the Annie Sloan projects in blogland for a while.. you’re FAQ’s are exactly what I needed to give me the confidence to try to do some experimenting myself! THANKS!!!
What is the color that was used on the top of the piece of furniture in your videos on caulk paint and waxing? I love the way that looks
The darker blue is called Aubusson Blue…a really beautiful peacock/teal color.
shaunna
How about the brown color on top of the buffet? I love your videos and your site. lots of neat ideas!
It was an ebony stain wiped in immediately….think it was Minwax Ebony. Good luck!
shaunna
First, I LOVE your blog. Your videos were very helpful and cute. Looks like my house… It is like being on the phone, kiddos don’t care do they! LOL.
I have been glaring at my furniture and threatening to paint it all for some time now. I had no idea there was a product that existed that didn’t (mostly) require prep work. I just finished sanding a laminate table and put on some all-purpose primer. It wouldn’t stick! It pulled away looking like a spider web. grrr.
My question is, will ASCP work on these types of surfaces? I have lots of laminate that I would love to paint.
Thanks!!
Morgan
girl, paint that laminate!!!! It should totally work.
shaunna
Thank you for addressing bleed-through! I had trouble with this on one of my pullout trays on the desk I chalk painted. After applying some clear wax first, then painting over, I had no more problems!!!
That’s a great tip…thank you for sharing!
shaunna
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I’m so glad you found us, then! We hope you find lots more useful info.
shaunna
Thanks so much for all the tips Shaunna! I featured you in my post about my first chalk paint experience.
Kim @ Too Much Time
http://kim-toomuchtimeonmyhands.blogspot.com/2011/10/homemade-chalk-paint-not-bad.html
I really get a kick out of your videos, I love that life is just going on around you like a normal day when we try to really get into a project…the phone, and the kids!! Hilarious! Thanks so much for putting these together, I am a new empty nester (that’s probably why I like the videos!) and am getting back into fun projects!!
Hi! Quick question. We have a homemade ice cream store, and want to paint the fronts of our dipping freezers with chalkboard paint. These are stainless steel fronts that are currently painted white. Will the paint adhere, and what kind of treatment do we need to do before using it? Can we actually write on it once it has dried? Thanks!
Thank you, this was very helpful!
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Hi there, I’m new to chalk paint and appreciate your tutorials. Can’t wait to start my first project. One question I haven’t seen asked is how to prep the finish prior to applying the chalk paint? You make reference to the fact that it adheres to any surface but, are you prepping the surface in anyway? Do I proceed as if I’m using latex paint? Or, just start painting?
Thanks so much for you time….LOVE, LOVE, LOVE your stuff!!!
Hi again…Kept looking for an answer after my first post and found this on an Annie Sloan site…thought it might help everyone here…
Reasons Why it’s Good!
Chalk Paint is a very special paint for very many reasons
1. It’s the BEST paint for painting furniture by a long way
2. You can use the paint by diluting it with water to make a wash to show the wood grain
3. You can use it as an impasto ( thickly) – leave the lid off to thicken
4. You can use it on any surface, indoors and out ( the outside of our shop was painted in it- perfect!)
5. No need to prime or prepare
6. The colours are mixed intelligently and the web site shows how you can adapt your colours for your use
7. It’s a girls’ paint, but boys can use it too.
8. It’s flexible so you can be creative and change your mind
9. It allows your walls to breathe so it is perfect for cottage walls
10. Extremely low VOCs so it is good for the environment
Later, Sheri
Thank you, Sheri!!!
shaunna
Hey Sheri! You don’t have to sand or prep in any way! That’s the beauty of it!! Just start painting,my dear!
shaunna
I am loving this chalk paint! And love all tips. I have seen this question asked, but no answer..and I can’t find it anywhere in the internet world..I have pre white and want to tint it slightly..I have TONS of latex paint left over from our home remodel..Can I use a little to tint the Annie Sloan paint? Wondering if even a small amount will harm the effect. Anyone have experience trying? I may try on a mirror or something small…
Hey Jennifer! Really, adding any latex to chalk paint will compromise the paint…I wouldn’t do it, probably. If so, just know it might mess around with durability, etc. Let us know if you try!
shaunna
I was so excited to buy and paint a piece of furniture with chalk paint. However it keeps cracking in random places. At first I thought it was because I didn’t wait long enough before applying second coat. Then I resanded and started over with one coat and it did it again. Any thoughts?
Hi! I just love your blog and your videos were awesome!! The only other question is….I am getting ready to paint kitchen cabinets and I want to make sure the white doesn’t yellow over time. Will Annie Sloan Clear wax yellow at all?? And also, if I don’t want them distressed, do I sand the paint just a little to make it smooth or not sand at all. If I don’t sand does the wax make the finish smooth? Ok so that was 3 questions I guess. I just want them to be awesome
Thanks! Jill @ Iknowtheplansihave4you.blogspot.com
Hey Jill! Great questions…if it’s okay with you, I think I’ll write a post to answer them for ya and everyone!! It’ll be up next week…let me know if you need some info before then!
shaunna
I have never used chalk paint, but your tutorial and furniture examples are fascinating. Thank you for sharing, I have got to get on the band wagon!
I painted a dining room table in Annie Sloan graphite. The rep told me to darken the paint I should apply dark wax and follow up with clear wax. I ended up with a finish that looks like mud whipped across the table. I understand after Internet research I should have done clear first. I guess I got some bad advice. Can I paint over this mess and start over? Do I need to let the original paint and wax cure first? The current finish is very shiny. I used a lot of wax trying to get a dark finish. Do I need to sand a little first? Any advice would be appreciated as I have wasted a lot of product and time. Thanks
Hey Nicole! Sure…just paint right over it…chalk paint will paint/adhere over wax, too. If your wax is still really tacky, you could give it a couple of days first. Next time, you can either apply a coat of clear and let it dry or apply clear, and immediately begin applying dark, wiping off as you go. Sometimes it helps me to have a damp cloth to have a little more control of how much dark wax stays/goes. Hope that helps!!
shaunna
I LOVE you! After trying to watch about 15 BRUTALLY boring youtube videos, I found you and I think you should continue to make these videos. I wish we were friends! Thanks again, Julie
I can’t remember the trail that lead me here, but let me just say I think it was destiny. I love your blog style and I LOVE your videos. You speak my language (southern). LOL I followed this post over to YouTube where I have watched every one of your videos. I have been wanting to use chalk paint but didn’t know where to start or if it would make a difference. You have convinced me that it will. Thank you for sharing your talents and inspiring this girl. Have a blessed day and keep rockin it out on YouTube.
I am looking into painting a wall and I was wondering what is the best protectant to use?
Hey Hannah! Do you mean with chalk paint? I’ve never done walls–I can talk with my stockist, though.
shaunna
Hi Shaunna,
I just watched your video’s and they were both so helpful, thank you so much for the of tips!! I do have one question though, can the chalk paint be used on the white Fiberboard or Particleboard? I am looking to buy a desk and also a few crafting cubes from Michael’s craft store for my craft room. But the problem is, they are made out of particle board and I love antique and very distressed furniture. So I am hoping I can buy the particleboard or I call ” fake wood ” lol to save money and make it look distressed with the chalk paint. Is this possible and durable on this kind of material? Thank you in advance!
Hey Amanda! It totally can! You should probably do one coat, then distress a little to see if it will distress the way you’d like for it to. If not, I would try one coat of CoCo or Graphite underneath whatever top color you’re looking for…that would give the illusion of faux wood. Hope that helps!
shaunna
Hi Shauna
I am an honored to be an Annie Sloan Chalk Paint Stockist in Upstate New York and have a cute shop and on-line store for selling the paint. (www.ThePurplePaintedLady.com). I love your blog. I hope you do not mind- but I believe you made an error in a post above- which I copied in below. The coverage of a quart of Annie Sloan Chalk Paint as noted on the quart is 150 sq. ft. However- as you pointed out- the quantity of furniture that can be painted from that one quart is quite outstanding. Thank you again.
Tricia
The Purple Painted Lady
New York Annie Sloan Chalk Paint Stockist and Instructor
How much can one can cover…is it worth the expense?
–The quart size cans cover around 40 square feet….and let me tell you, it lasts. And lasts. For instance, with my one can of Old White, I’ve painted: two large signs, trim on the french dresser, a farmhouse dining table-2 coats, a large waterfall buffet-2 coats, a mirror, some small frames…and I can’t even remember what else. I’ve just now gotten to under half a can. And with saving the cost of primer, lots of sanding supplies, and using less sanding blocks to distress, the cost is completely worth it for me. It will be different for everyone, but the quality is incredible, the look is so beautiful, and it does go such a long way.
Thank you for the correction, Tricia! I’ll fix that in a sec!
shaunna
I love your video – it “speaks” to me b/c I am a southern mother too! I love A.S. chalkpaint, but still haven’t gotten the hang of the waxing. Question: when I go to apply the dark wax over the clear, it just seems to stick and “ball” up or roll off. It doesn’t go on smoothly. I put it on w/ the fat brush they sold me, then I try to smooth it with a t-shirt, and it ends up looking alright, but pretty muddy and distressed. How do I make the dark wax go on smoother? Is it supposed to do that?
Thanks!
Ellen
I loved your site, though I hope you would post a comment on mine, but you wrote everything in detail eventhough it dosent affect you in any way! You are admireable! I’m quite sure you spent lots of time researching and learning. I admire you.
P.S I’m quite random too:)
Thanks for the helpful info. about Annie Sloan’s Chalk Paint. I am about to paint an antique mirror I just bought and love the duck egg blue, but can you tell me is this a bluish-green or a greenish blue. I will have to order the paint as there are no local retailers that carry it, and I just don’t want to order the wrong color. I have a lot of slate/porcelain blues in my room, and am hoping that the duck egg blue would coordinate well. Any help you can offer would be great. Thanks.
Hey Tania! It definitely has a lot of green in it, but I think it would look lovely paired with any shade of blue. If you wanted a little more blue to it, you could mix it with equal parts Provence–a lovely color!!
shaunna
Amazing!! Colors have such an effect… though I must say that there is something very romantic in the look of the furniture before it was repainted
Just wanted to say YOU ROCK!! This video gave my all that I needed. Got my ASCP, clear wax, and dark wax ready!…(and baby wipes!). Thx so much for the great info. U r very talented and I completely love ur blog.
I run a resale furniture store so I have used this paint product and even though it may cost a little more them what I like to spend it increases my sells, my customer buy more of the painted furniture when I use it.
Have you tried Caromal Colours? I find them equally easy to work with, even more durable – and using their Reclaim line eliminates the waxing part — just curious …
I want to refinish some wood chairs but I don’t want to paint them. Can I use the clear wax with the dark wax over it directly on the wood for a vintage look? Do I need to sand old varnish off first?
As a new DIY-er, I can’t tell you how much I have enjoyed traveling through your blog and all it’s incredible information! You have such an amazing eye for what’s beautiful and interesting. I have been following for a few weeks now, (having found you on Pinterest, it’s hard to be doing anything else!) and have purchased your e book and learned quite a bit from the wonderful video tutorials. I’d just like to say, thanks so much for putting in the time, the videos are the most helpful! I’m more of a visual learner! I am currently working on my very first piece, a maple dresser picked up from my favorite thrift store. My husband, skeptical at first, has yet to let me use the power sander, so it seems he’s on the path to greatness as well. I never thought he’d be interested, but it has turned into something we can do together. I am a photographer by trade and have found myself looknig for a completely different creative outlet to get the juices flowing, you are it!
Thanks again, keep the ideas coming…something quick and easy next , (trying not to get discouraged…you make it look SOOO easy)
Regards,
Aubrey ~ Satellite Beach, Fl
Hi Shauna,
Your tutorial was great and also watched the Miss Mustard Seed on waxing but still have a few questions. I’m about to paint my first dining room table for a client with Annie Sloan paint with clear wax finish. I have not done a large piece like this and have not been able to find any information on how it withstands to daily use. Does the wax wipe well? How do you clean it? Would a different topcot be better for a table that will get a lot of daily use?
Thanks!
Laurie
Hi, I love all the waxing tips but what I dont understand is the buffing part, How is that done? Thanks so much ! Tammy
Hi Shauna,
I’ve been working on my first project with chalk paint& I love it! I’m wondering if you’ve ever used it on lacquer furniture? I have on ugly beige lacquer dresser I would love to paint next, but I’m not sure if I should try it! What do you think? Also, how do I buy chalk paint from you?
Hi Jin! Great! I have used it with lacquered furniture–it’s worked great for me. 2 coats of paint, 2 coats of clear wax…and use dark (after clear) if that’s the look you’re going for. If you see it’s not adhering because of (high) lacquer, you can always wipe it down or VERY lightly buff it with sandpaper to create a little friction. P.S. I’ve not had to prep one of the 50 + pieces I’ve painted with it yet. My online store isn’t up and running yet, but I can take an order from you via email. You can also visit anniesloanunfolded.com to see if there’s a retailer in your area.
Thanks so much for your interest & have fun with it!
shaunna